Greetings, my friends. We are all interested in watching movies, for that is how you and I are going to spend most of the rest of our lives. My friends, can your hearts stand the shocking facts about Hollywood Hype, Showbiz Quirks and ridiculously bogus cinematic backstories?

• Both vigilantes stalk Central Park/subways for revenge/justice
• Both vigilantes are “let go” by the lead detective
• Both lead detectives are shot, while trying to protect the vigilante
• Both vigilantes eventually “get the bad guys”

I am sure you can see my point, and agree with me! I think my wife can just read too much into a quality film like this, and ruin it for those of us that enjoy great writing and unexpected plot twists that make the film genre so gratifying.

Your adoring fan,

Rosebud

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Dear Fan,

With apologies to your wife, I must say that I agree with you, Rosebud (by the way, what is the origin of that unique name?).

There are major differences between the two films. Although “Death Wish” and “The Brave One,” are cinematic masterpieces in their own right, they couldn’t be more different.

For instance:

• The movies were made in completely different decades.
• The main character in “Death Wish,” Charles Bronson, has a mustache and, as far as I know Jodie Foster, the lead in “The Brave One,” has always been clean-shaven.
• The three main actors in “Death Wish” are, indeed dead, whereas just about everyone in the cast of “The Brave One” are still alive and kicking.
• Charles Bronson never played opposite Robert De Niro as a teenage hooker.
• Jodie Foster was passed over for a role in “The Dirty Dozen” after a disastrous screen test
• Charles Bronson was never stalked by John Hinckley.
• Jodie Foster has never even seen “The Magnificent Seven.”
• “The Brave One” has not been followed by a series of horribly tepid sequels…yet.

I hope this puts to rest any differences you and your wife may have about these films.

You might want to have a heart to heart conversation with her. She seems to have an unhealthy fixation on conspiracies. Be gentle, but, in no uncertain terms, help her to realize that Hollywood producers and writers are essentially honorable people who would never stoop so low as to deliberately “steal” someone else’s work.

Good luck.

The Movielady

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Program note: The part of Rosebud was played tonight by Joe Furino

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If you liked this “review,” please take a minute to check out my “24: Day 8″ blog and join me as we deconstruct each episode of America’s Favorite World-Saver! Just click here